Latest news with #UniversalStudiosOrlando
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Inside Universal Studios' brand new Epic Universe – here's what you should see
And the incredible food you must try OUT OF THIS WORLD Inside Universal Studios' brand new Epic Universe – here's what you should see IT'S been a long time since I've been to Universal Studios Orlando. The hazy days of 1999 feel much further away than its quarter of a century of distance. Advertisement 10 Even the entrance to the park is epic Credit: ALL_RIGHTS 10 Stardust Racers is all thrills and no filler Credit: ALL_RIGHTS 10 The Isle of Berk brings the classic How To Train Your Dragon films to life So when I heard about the grand opening of the first new theme park in Florida in 25 years, I just had to be there. Universal has been working for years to bring the incredible new Epic Universe to the theme-park capital and it was well worth waiting for. It's home to five brand new hyper-immersive worlds themed on legendary franchises with rides, shows, and experiences unlike anything else in the world. Travelling over to Florida, I enjoyed the luxury of British Airways World Traveller Plus, which offers lots of comfort and some serious leg room. This is long-haul luxury I could get used to. Advertisement With over two decades since my last visit, it's safe to say things have changed a tad. I stayed at the thoroughly modern Universal Stella Nova resort, just a five-minute bus journey from the centre of all the excitement in the new park. The rooms were absolutely huge, with plenty of space for families to use as a base for their trip. Stepping into Celestial Park, it was clear this was on another level compared to anything I had ever experienced before. Advertisement Acting as a hub and a world in its own right, it features plenty of restaurants and attractions for visitors to explore. The highlight of Celestial Park, and one of the best thrill rides Universal has to offer, is Stardust Racers, which features two carts that intertwine and loop round each other as they battle to reach the finish. Most popular treats for Brits on holiday It goes toe-to-toe with the most hardcore rides in the original park. To get the full experience, make sure to split your party of riders in two. Advertisement Spinning fully vertical over your friends at 62mph while waving and jeering each other during straight sections makes this one of the most enjoyable coasters on the planet. My pals and I chose to ride it four times in one day, including twice back-to-back on each set of cars. It was just that good! Stepping through the entrance to each of the themed worlds is like walking through a portal to a different universe. Genius theming and brilliant design fully immerses you. Advertisement GO EPIC UNIVERSE GETTING/STAYING THERE: A week room-only at the 5* Universal Helios Grand Hotel is from £1,449pp and seven nights at the 3.5* Universal Stella Nova Resort is from £829pp on selected dates in January. See MORE INFO: Universal Orlando Resort All Park Tickets from £439pp for a week including one day at Epic Universe from British Airways Holidays. For all you need to know before you visit Epic Universe see 10 The incredible queue for Battle at the Ministry The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic As you rush through the portal to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, you're transported to a picture-perfect Parisian street with cracked cobbles below and towering French architecture. It's hard to believe you're still in the heart of the Sunshine State. Advertisement Potter fans will lose their minds at the new Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry ride. Entering using Floo Powder in the fireplace just like in the films, you find yourself within the Ministry on the day of Dolores Umbridge's highly anticipated trial. It was like walking on the actual film sets themselves — incredible. And that's just the queue! Once on the ride, you'll experience the thrilling trial in its entirety with cutting-edge CGI and animatronics bringing every second of the intense battle to life. Advertisement 10 Super Nintendo World feels like a video game come to life Super Nintendo World If gaming is more your speed (it definitely is mine), then jumping through the warp pipe to Super Nintendo World will take you to a bright and colourful playground where fun is top of the agenda. With the much-loved Mario Kart ride melding the game, virtual reality, and traditional indoor rollercoasters, one ride will never be enough, and you'll find yourself wanting to turn back and immediately start queuing again, just like me. Advertisement In a first for the USA, Super Nintendo World offers visitors a chance to visit Donkey Kong Country, a vibrant jungle based on the classic SNES games. Its main ride, Mine-Cart Madness, captures the feel of jumping from track to track on an old mine cart just like those retro levels. Even Yoshi's Adventure is a perfect beginner coaster for younger children, if you can pull them away from the hidden mini games and interactive elements scattered throughout the world. Kids (and nostalgic adults) also have the chance to meet iconic Nintendo characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad and Donkey Kong as they explore. Advertisement 10 Hiccup's Wing gliders proved a fast favourite within the group How To Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk How To Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk is a must for fans of the Dreamworks classic. Easily the biggest of the new worlds, it captures the spirit of the series perfectly. Hiccup's Wing Gliders sees you soaring through the air on a dragon glider, swooping from left to right as the movie's soundtrack fills the air felt utterly whimsical. Advertisement The park's only water-based ride, Fire Drill, lets you soak your friends, and was a fantastic, if slightly cruel, way to beat the Florida heat. The show, The Untrainable Dragon, was a real highlight, with Hiccup and Toothless soaring over us, giving a fantastic view of all the attention to detail paid to bring the franchise to life in the new world. 10 Visiting Darkmoor in the Dark Universe felt like stepping into another world Credit: ALL_RIGHTS Dark Universe Advertisement Easily my favourite of the new worlds was the spooky Dark Universe. Based on the classic Universal Monsters, horror fans will be delighted to see throwbacks to sorely missed characters like Frankenstein's Monster, the Bride and the Wolfman. The detail was, once again, on-point, from the austere gothic architecture to the windmill restaurant that bursts into flames as you dine. Both Curse of the Wolfman and Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment rides were just the right mix of thrilling and fun, a love letter to the classic movies. Advertisement The latter's blend of special effects and unique movement had me giggling with joy on each ride. 10 The Burning Blade Tavern literally catches fire as you dine Credit: ALL_RIGHTS Throughout the parks, dining options were excellent. Isle of Berk's incredible mac and cheese cone and the Dark Universe's Monocane drink in a neon green vial proved to be my personal favourites. If you're a theme park newbie or someone who just can't get enough of the much-loved original Universal Studios Orlando, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay, there are also free buses every half-hour from Stella Nova resort. Advertisement All are well worth a visit, and have a great range of coasters, from the classic Revenge of the Mummy Ride to modern favourites like the adrenaline rush that is Hagrid's Magical Creatures, and the unrelenting thrill-filled Jurassic World Velocicoaster. And if you want even easier access to the amazing Epic Universe, Loews and Universal have teamed up to create the stunning Universal Grand Helios Hotel which, among other luxuries, boasts its own private entrance to the park. With rooms themed around worlds like How to Train Your Dragon, it's perfect for families who want to skip the queues or take breaks from the parks throughout the day. Watching the dazzling fireworks display fill the night sky for the grand opening, it became clear to me that Epic Universe well and truly lives up to its name. Advertisement So if you've been looking for an excuse to explore some epic new worlds and have an absolute blast doing so, now is the perfect time. 10 The EPIC grand opening celebrations
Irish Examiner
6 days ago
- Business
- Irish Examiner
Everything you need to know about the new €6bn Epic Universe theme park in Orlando
Universal Studios Orlando first opened its doors back in 1990. Both a working studio and an entertainment complex, made up of Universal Studios, Islands of Adventures and Volcano Bay, it welcomes 10million visitors a year. So, when it was announced back in 2019 that it would be adding a fourth park – claiming to be the 'most immersive and innovative' theme park the company had ever created – there was great anticipation. Fast forward six years and that park has now become a reality. The first major theme park to come to Orlando in 25 years, and at a cost of $7.5 billion (€6.2 billion), Epic Universe has certainly raised the bar. I headed to the opening week a for a behind the scenes look at, in the words of Mark Woodbury, Universal Destinations and Experiences' Chairman and CEO, 'the most technologically advanced park in the world'. What are the rides like? The Dark Universe area at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Universal/PA With 11 new rides, one of which has been deemed the best dark ride in the world, I was eager to get started. With five worlds to explore – How to Train Your Dragon; Isle of Berk; Super Nintendo World; Dark Universe; and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic (all centred around the main hub of Celestial Park) – I was lucky I had three days. Each world is entered through its own portal, backed-up with its own music and theming, making visitors feel like they have truly been transported into a different dimension. None more so, than the colourful Super Nintendo World with its sea of rainbow, sounds of coins being collected and Venus flytraps chomping away to that well-known theme tune. Rides range from family coasters, such as Hiccups Wing Gliders – a firm favourite with our group, to the high-speed, dual racing thrill ride of Stardust Racers. Fyre Drill is a water soaker perfect for cooling down in the humid Floridian heat, while airborne Dragon Racers Rally allows you to barrel-roll your own dragon, should you desire. The new Super Nintendo World at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Kirsty Masterman/PA If you're a fan of Mario Kart, then Bowser's Challenge is definitely one to try. This fully immersive version of the game puts riders behind the wheel of their very own moving kart. Donning a special Mario cap along with high-tech virtual reality glasses, I took my place in the kart and head out on my own mission to collect as many coins as possible while encountering Mario favourites. For me, Dark Universe was the real showstopper. I was lucky enough to visit this area during the day and at night, and I have to say, if you get the chance to go after dark, you won't leave disappointed. It has to be the most atmospheric and creepy park, EVER! Monsters Unchained is one of those rides you can go on time and time again, each time a different experience. I rode this four times and still felt like I had missed some elements of it. Sat on a row of chairs attached to a robotic arm, I entered the abyss of Dr Victoria Frankenstein's experiment, being tilted backwards and forwards, up and down, as a revolt of enraged monsters came at me. Kirsty at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Kirsty Masterman/PA Despite Dark Universe being my particular favourite world, I would challenge anyone to not be impressed by the Ministry of Magic in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. With anticipated queue times of up to five hours, its reputation certainly precedes it. The entrance is an exact replica of the one in the films. Bottle-green glossy tiles line the walls, along with posters with moving images. Even the entrance to the Ministry via the Metro-Floo makes riders disappear in a plume of green smoke. The ride itself is definitely worth the wait and is a lot longer than you would anticipate as you travel deep into the depths of the Ministry's many departments to the trial of Delores Umbridge, encountering uninvited guests along the way. The live shows you can't miss The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Picture: Universal/PA Aside from the rides, there are two notable live shows at Epic and you won't want to miss either. I'm not usually much of a fan of park shows, but both of these soon had me changing my mind. The Untrainable Dragon, within Isle of Berk, treats audiences to a spectacular, musical show, complete with dragons, amazing stage effects and a moving toothless dragon animatronic that soars above the audience. Even if you have never seen the films, you can't fail to be impressed, while Le Cirque Arcanus in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter takes part in a small circus tent and combines a magical performance of illusions, puppetry and immersive effects, that has audiences captivated right from the preshow. The best dining options Celestial Park at night at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Kirsty Masterman/PA Whilst Celestial Park is the hub of Epic, with many dining options, there are plenty to be found in each world, with the theming spilling over into the menus. With an abundance of restaurants, cafes, pubs and street carts, I am spoilt for choice, with everything from Parisian street cafes in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the deathly dishes at Das Stakehaus in Dark Universe. During my visit I sampled the delights of Mead Hall in Isle of Berk – a one stop shop for Viking cuisine. Serving everything from sandwiches to meat platters and what seemed to be popular choice – Mac and Cheese cones. For the more discerning diner, the Atlantic restaurant in Celestial Park provides a fine under-the-sea dining experience, with a seafood-based menu. But for me, the Toadstool Cafe in Super Nintendo World was a big hit, with its Mario and Luigi burgers and Bowser's Fireball Challenge. Where to stay The Stella Nova resort. Picture: Universal/PA Epic Universe brings three new hotels – The Helios Grand Hotel, Stella Nova and Terra Luna. If your budget allows, then staying at Helios is a no-brainer. This starry 500 room extravaganza has amazing views overlooking Epic and even has its own entrance to the park. For the more budget-minded, the Stella Nova and Terra Luna offer a more affordable option. I stayed at the Stella Nova resort, just a short shuttle ride away. For me, this was the perfect option. I had great views of the park and the onsite pool and bar area made for a relaxing afternoon in amongst what was a hectic few days. Staying onsite also gives guests early park admission. Overall verdict Kirsty Masterman at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Kirsty Masterman/PA For me, Epic Universe is truly that. Everything from the theming to the rides, food to the park itself has raised the bar in the world of theme parks. No expense has been spared on taking each attraction to the next level. But with demand expected to be high, ticket sales only allow for one-day passes throughout 2025, so planning ahead is key. I've no doubt the celebrations will continue for many months to come, but for now, the memories will live on. So, until next time, Universal… you have been Epic! How to plan your trip Universal Epic Universe theme park. Picture: Universal/PA British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 3.5-star Universal Stella Nova Resort from €985pp, including flights and room only accommodation. Universal Orlando Resort All Park Tickets are available from €522pp. For reservations visit
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
How to Make the Most of Your Family Visit to Epic Universe
When Universal Studios announced they would be opening a new theme park, I was intrigued. As a parent and a lover of both their movies and properties, I couldn't wait to see what their creative teams dreamed up. And, as a self-proclaimed 'theme park person,' one who already loves Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure, I was sure their latest venture would be amazing. But would Epic Universe—home to Dark Universe, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, Celestial Park, and the Ministry of Magic—be age-appropriate for my littlest as well as my tween? Would it be good for kids of all ages? Well, the short answer is yes: Epic Universe is a family theme park, through and through. But the long answer is complex. You see, I was one of thousands fortunate enough to visit Epic Universe during its technical rehearsal. I got to ride Stardust Racers and Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge. I ate at Das Stakehaus and the Atlantic. And I got to meet Princess Peach. I also saw the Invisible Man, Frankenstein's Monster, and Bride of Frankenstein. Here's everything I learned during one (very) full day at Epic Universe. If you are traveling with young children, you'll probably want to stick to three areas: Celestial Park, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, and How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk. The theming in these sections is colorful and geared toward the younger set. The characters are pretty darn recognizable. (Hello, Mario, Toothless, and Toad.) The height requirements on most attractions are reduced. And there are plenty of interactive features. From playgrounds to coin blocks, there is so much fun to be had. That said, it is important to note that lap riding is not permitted, even on rides without height requirements. Infants must be able to sit independently and support their bodies while experiencing rides, including Fyre Drill and Constellation Carousel. Still, there are things to do with smaller children. There is a play area in the Isle of Berk and a must-see show. There is also a show in the Ministry of Magic. And SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is full of games and activities. You also shouldn't let the 'younger' theming or lowered height restrictions fool you: These areas were some of my favorites. Both SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and Isle of Berk are completely immersive experiences. The former, with its iconic castles, characters, and warp pipe entrance, and the latter with dozens of dragons, three rides, and one amazing show do not disappoint. And Celestial Park? Well, it is unlike any other theme park entrance. If you are traveling with tweens and teens, we still recommend you visit the other three sections; however, you should also add Dark Universe and the Ministry of Magic to your list. Dark Universe is home to one of the greatest dark rides of all time. (Truly. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment is a masterpiece, in and of its own right.) It's also home to some amazing character interactions. My husband and son met Frankenstein's Monster and the Bride of Frankenstein and let's just say: core memories were made. And the Ministry of Magic is stunning. If you're a Harry Potter fan, it is a must-see. Whether you are looking for a sit down meal or just want to grab a quick bite, the food in Epic Universe does not disappoint. Everything I ate—and drank—was decadent, delicious, and highly themed. Even the napkins are on point. Here are some of my favorites: The Bubbly Barrel: If you are looking for a sweet treat, head to The Bubbly Barrel for the DK Crush Float. This signature item is made with banana soft serve and pineapple soda and served in a waffle bowl. It's topped with various treats like toffee pieces, caramel popcorn, and golden star sprinkles. And it comes in a plastic Donkey Kong mug, which is shaped like a barrel of course. Das Stakehaus: One of my favorite stops of the day was at Das Stakehaus. The atmosphere is dark and gothic, which I personally appreciate. The air is a welcome respite from the midday sun, and the food (and beverages) are delicious. Don't sleep on the Darkmoor Black Wings and/or the Das Burger. Trust me. Both are excellent choices. The Burning Blade Tavern: Located behind Monsters Unchained is The Burning Blade Tavern. Inside you will find a fully stocked bar, where you can get beer, wine, speciality cocktails, or the Mononcane mocktail—a delicious Sprite-based beverage served in a beaker. At the outside pickup window, I recommend trying the Hunter's Garlic Stake, a slightly pricey but oh-so-yummy garlic pretzel. Another great option? The Burning Cheddar Bites, which are crispy fried poppers served with sriracha ranch. I did not get a chance to try the highly-coveted mac and cheese cone at Hooligan's Grog & Gruel or the ube crust pizza at Pizza Moon; however, when I return, these are definitely on my short list. (And yes, I will be returning.) Epic Universe offers some amazing new attractions, with unique features and state of the art technology. For some rides, however, this does mean the bar is set higher, i.e. height requirements at Epic Universe seem to be a bit more restrictive. Here is everything parents of smaller riders should know: Stardust Racers (minimum height 48') Constellation Carousel (no height requirement but no handheld infants) Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge (minimum height 40') Mine-Cart Madness (minimum height 40') Yoshi's Adventure (minimum height 34') Dragon Racer's Rally (minimum height 48') Hiccup's Wing Gliders (minimum height 40') Fyre Drill (no height requirement but no handheld infants) Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (minimum height 40') Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment (minimum height 48') Curse of the Werewolf (minimum height 40') Shows and entertainment. There are two stage shows in Epic Universe: Le Cirque Arcanus and The Untrainable Dragon. The former, which is in the Ministry of Magic, is a unique experience which blends live-action performances, puppetry, and special effects. The latter, in the Isle of Berk, involves life-sized dragons, music, and tons of action—perfect for fans of the movie. But the entertainment doesn't end there. There are street performers in Celestial Park, as well as live music and a fountain show. And in Darkmoor, the haunting village of Dark Universe, you will find characters roaming throughout—especially at night. There is also the Monster Makeup Experience, available at an additional charge. Playgrounds and more. If you're little one is looking for a playground, Epic Universe has you covered with their Viking Training Camp. This sprawling, colorful, interactive play area has bridges, towers, slides, and more. It even has a sheep launcher game. A great area for youngsters who may not yet meet height requirements and/or kiddos who just need a break from long lines. Interactive features. There are two ways to interact with the lands in Epic Universe: wands and Power-Up Bands. Both items, which are sold separately, allow guests to experience the park in a new light: casting spells, tapping coin and question blocks, or completing mini-games (respectively). The latter even connects to the Universal Orlando Resort app. And, if your kiddo collects enough keys, they'll unlock a final interactive challenge with Bowser Jr. Rainy day fun. If I have one complaint to wager, it is this: Epic Universe is not really a 'rainy day park.' Sure, it can handle Florida's midday storms just fine, but there's not a ton to do if the rides shut down for a long period of time—as most of Epic's attractions are outdoors. Still, if you find yourself in the park during a storm, having a strategy is a good idea. Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry both have long indoor queues, if you don't mind the wait. Eating a delicious sitdown meal may be a good solution. The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant and Atlantic are excellent choices. Both are located in Celestial Park. Toadstool Cafe, Pizza Moon, Das Stakehaus, and The Oak and Star Tavern all offer indoor seating. You can also take in a show, if seating is available. Epic Universe is—without a doubt—an epic new theme park: for kids and adults. Whether you are collecting coins, casting spells, or soaring through the skies like a dragon, Universal's latest venture is something you just have to experience. They redefined what a theme park is. Will there be hiccups in the weeks and months to come? Probably. When Universal opened The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade, the wait to get in was hours long. (I would know, I was there.) And I expect Epic's popular attractions will see similar waits. Delays and closures are also bound to occur. However, Epic Universe already stands out as one of the great theme parks, and I imagine that—as it finds its footing and evolves with its guests—it will become an even greater experience. Read the original article on Parents
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
4 Things the Middle Class Can't Afford at Universal Studios Orlando
Although a day at any theme park is likely to cost some money, some of the fun at Universal Studios Orlando seems out of the price range for most middle-class families. Find Out: Read Next: Whether you are planning a trip or not, it's interesting to know some things the middle class may no longer be able to afford at Universal Studios Orlando. When heading to an Orlando theme park, staying on property can make life easier. Although you'll enjoy less commute time to the parks, you'll likely pay more for that privilege. Universal's Loews Royal Pacific Resort is a luxury option for parkgoers who want to stay on property, but it may be out of reach for many middle-class families. According to the Orlando Informer, staying at this hotel costs between $421 and $914 per night. Explore More: Universal Studios offers a wide selection of unique dining experiences. But in general, dining inside the park is a significant expense, especially if you want to enjoy one of the more unique options. For example, the park's Marvel character dinner costs $56.99 for adults and $31.99 for children. That can add up quickly for any family trying to enjoy a day at the theme park. If you don't want to spend all day waiting in line, purchasing a skip-the-line pass can be worth it. But for many families, these passes are simply out of reach. For a single day, an Express Unlimited Pass for Universal Studios costs around $140 per person. For a family of four, that adds around $560 per day to the park experience. Even the park tickets themselves are out of reach for many families. A one-day ticket for two parks, Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure, starts at $174 for adults and $169 for children. If you want to visit just one park, ticket prices start between $80 and $139 for adults and between $75 and $134 for children. And prices can go up based on the day and time of year you plan to visit. Remember, this just gets you in the door. It doesn't include food, skip-the-line passes or lodging. When the day starts out with that kind of expense, it's easy to see how many families wouldn't be able to afford to take this vacation. For those who want to take a vacation to Universal Studios Orlando without derailing their financial goals, here are some tips. Save in advance. Map out an estimate of what you expect to spend on the trip. If possible, start saving early to build up a stockpile earmarked for the big trip. Lock in cheap flight deals. If you are flying in, seeking out an affordable plane ticket can help keep costs lower. Shop early and consider budget carriers for affordable flights. Use your credit card rewards. For responsible spenders, consider opening a rewards credit card and building up a point balance to help you defray some of the costs. For example, this might help you pay for your flights or even your hotel. If a trip to Universal Studios Orlando ends up being out of your price range, that's okay. The good news is that you can take plenty of other vacations for a fraction of the cost, especially if you consider local destinations to cut down on transportation costs. More From GOBankingRates 5 Luxury Cars That Will Have Massive Price Drops in Spring 2025 4 Things You Should Do if You Want To Retire Early The New Retirement Problem Boomers Are Facing 8 Common Mistakes Retirees Make With Their Social Security Checks This article originally appeared on 4 Things the Middle Class Can't Afford at Universal Studios Orlando
Fox News
23-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Fox News
'Most hated mom' Casey Anthony returns to national spotlight after acquittal in daughter's murder
"America's most hated mom," Casey Anthony, is now promoting a new video series on TikTok in which she intends to speak about legal issues and "advocate" for her daughter, Caylee, whom she was accused of killing in 2008. Anthony, now 38, was accused of killing her 2-year-old daughter in 2008 but has alleged that her father is the real perpetrator. "This is my first of probably many recordings on a series I am starting," Anthony said in a March 1 video posted to TikTok. "I am a legal advocate. I am a researcher. I have been in the legal field since 2011, and in this capacity, I feel that it's necessary if I'm going to continue to operate appropriately as a legal advocate that I start to advocate for myself and also advocate for my daughter." She continued: "For those of you who don't know, my name is Casey Anthony. My daughter is Caylee Anthony. My parents are George and Cindy Anthony. This is not about them. This is not in response to anything that they have said or done. … The whole point of this is for me to begin to reintroduce myself." Casey Anthony has become a household name over the last 17 years, inspiring multiple TV series and documentaries, including Peacock's "Casey Anthony: Where The Truth Lies," which premiered in 2022. A jury found Anthony guilty of lying to law enforcement but not guilty of first-degree murder, aggravated manslaughter and aggravated child abuse after a trial in 2011. Caylee's death remains unsolved. Here is the timeline of events leading up to and after Caylee Anthony's disappearance: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Casey Anthony said she dropped her daughter off at her nanny's apartment — a claim that was later revealed to be false, according to court documents. Casey said she then left for her job at Universal Studios Orlando — another claim later determined to be false. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Casey said she left her job around 5 p.m. and drove back to her nanny's apartment complex to pick up Caylee. She apparently tried to contact her nanny, but her phone had been disconnected. Casey later alleged that no one was home, so she drove to Jay Blanchard Park. Casey said she went to her then-boyfriend Anthony Lazzaro's apartment and stayed with him from then on as she searched for her daughter. Casey alleged she received a "quick call" from her daughter's nanny on June 12, but she still did not know the whereabouts of the 2-year-old. She also said in a statement ahead of her trial that she had not called police at this point out of fear of her family. Casey later revealed that the last time she saw her daughter was on June 16, 2008. She said she and Caylee had been resting together in her bed that day because she "wasn't feeling that great." She said she thought she had locked the door of the room they were in but was awoken by her father, George, asking her where Caylee was. "She would never even leave my room without telling me," Casey told filmmakers in an interview featured in the 2022 Peacock documentary. She continued: "I immediately started looking around the house. … I go outside, and I'm looking to see where she could be. She's not in her playhouse. Where is she?" When filmmakers asked if she looked inside the pool, Casey said she "didn't have to." 12 p.m. Casey alleged that over a month after her daughter's disappearance, on July 15, 2008, she received a phone call from Caylee. "Today was the first day I have heard her voice in over four weeks," Casey wrote in a 2008 statement. "I'm afraid of what Caylee is going through. After 31 days, I know that the only thing that matters is getting my daughter back." Evening Casey's parents, George and Cindy Anthony, called law enforcement multiple times to report their granddaughter missing and other nefarious activity. "In the first two calls, Cindy Anthony requested police assistance in recovering a vehicle and money allegedly stolen by [Casey]," court records state. "In the third 9-1-1 call, Cindy Anthony reported that her granddaughter, Caylee, had been missing for approximately thirty days. Cindy Anthony testified that she made these phone calls because [Casey] would not tell her where Caylee was." In the 911 calls, Cindy apparently told police that Casey's car smelled like a "dead body," according to Click Orlando. "I called a little bit ago to the deputy sheriff's and I've found out that my granddaughter has been taken — she has been missing for a month," Cindy told emergency services. "Her mother had finally admitted that she had been missing." "We are talking about a 3-year-old little girl," Cindy continued. "My daughter finally admitted that the baby sitter stole her. I need to find her." "There is something wrong. I found my daughter's car today and it smells like there's been a dead body in the damn car." The 911 operator then asked for clarity on the missing girl's location. "She said she took her a month ago and my daughter has been looking for her," Cindy said. "I told you, my daughter has been missing for a month and I just found her today. But I can't find my granddaughter. She just admitted to me that she's been trying to find her by herself. There is something wrong. I found my daughter's car today and it smells like there's been a dead body in the damn car." Law enforcement arrived at the Anthony family home that evening, separated the family members and got statements from each of them. Casey Anthony willingly gave a statement to police at the time, telling them she last saw her daughter with the nanny. 3:30 a.m. to 7 a.m. A detective arrived at the Anthony residence around 3:30 a.m. Around 4:10 a.m., the detective spoke with Casey in a spare bedroom with the door open. The interview, which reaffirmed her written statement, was recorded with Casey's consent. SIGN UP TO GET TRUE CRIME NEWSLETTER The detective then drove with Casey to the nanny's apartment complex and two other locations where she believed the nanny may have lived later that morning, according to court documents. Casey was arrested later that day for child neglect, obstruction and making fraudulent statements after authorities determined that her claims about dropping Caylee off with her nanny and working at Universal Studios were determined to be false. Police name Casey as a person of interest in her daughter's disappearance. A grand jury indicts Casey Anthony on a murder charge in connection with her daughter's presumed death. She is detained in jail until her trial in 2011. A utility worker located Caylee's skeletal remains in a wooded area about a half-mile from the Anthony family's home on Dec. 11, 2008. Casey Anthony's attorneys would later file a court motion implicating the utility worker in connection with the crime. He would file a defamation suit years later in 2013. Casey's murder trial began on May 24, 2011, and lasted more than six weeks. Her parents and her brother were among those called as witnesses. Jose Baez, who represented Athony during her trial, argued that Caylee accidentally drowned in the family's above-ground swimming pool in June 2008 and Casey's parents then attempted to cover up her death and dispose of her remains, which George and Cindy have vehemently denied. Prosecutors argued that Casey Anthony suffocated her daughter with chloroform and taped the 2-year-old's mouth shut. After deliberating for 11 hours, a Florida jury found Anthony not guilty of first-degree murder, aggravated manslaughter and aggravated child abuse. She was convicted of lying to law enforcement. Anthony admitted to The Associated Press in 2017 that she did lie about Caylee being with a babysitter, about speaking with Caylee over the phone one day before the girl disappeared, about working for Universal Studios and about telling people that her daughter was missing.
